No way to treat a B-25 ... (Warning graphic)

[Mark Allen M]

This was an Aberdeen Maryland test of fire suppression techniques. Damage tests on aircraft by fire c 1946
Photos: Mark Kauffman - LIFE Collections

More Horrors here:
https://www.facebook.com/pg/Radio.WW2/p ... 0884123565

[Craig59]

I think the date is a little later because unless my eyes deceive me, that's a 1949 or 1950 Mercury 4 door sedan in the first picture.

[Chris Brame]

Yep - the Facebook link says 1952.

[Mark Allen M]

Yes indeed it is 1952.

[JohnB]

An early crash simulation, a bit like the FAA crashing their Boeing 720 back in the 90s....

The rig itself look similar to the one at Langley they suspended flood damaged Pipers from to study survivability in general aviation aircraft in the 70s.

[Jesse C.]

Weapons testing on old airframes

[Stoney]

destroyed in "Catch 22"

[Chris Brame]

Similar test with B-17G 44-85697, on Getty Images video (Warner Pathe newsreel):

[JohnB]

As I understand it, the B-25 destroyed in the film was a non-flying derelict found in Mexico...not worth a lot then.
In other words..."No flying Mitchells were harmed in the making of this film."

[Stoney]

the B-25 destroyed in Catch 22 flew in wheels down from Bahia, Mexico.

[Pogmusic]

Ok, the B-17 I understand; but, why is the Soviet T-34 there under the B-17 tail?

[bdk]

Is that some kind of airstair in the aft fuselage?

[Todd Hackbarth]

This is the life raft storage locker with the access door removed.

Todd